North Ward is currently represented by five Councillors, including some of Penrith’s most experienced local government representatives. It takes in major population hubs like Emu Plains and Cranebrook, while also covering key rural areas.
Of the existing councillors, Jonathan Pullen is not running at the election.
The major change in North Ward at this election is that Councillor Glen Gardiner will head up an Independent ticket, with long-time Councillor Kevin Crameri second on that ticket.
There is also a second Independent ticket in North Ward, headed up by Amanda Cardwell.
North Ward’s huge point of difference at this election is that it is the only ward with Liberal candidates, after the party’s nomination debacle last month. Veteran Councillor Ross Fowler leads the Liberal ticket.
Former Mayor John Thain heads up the Labor ticket in North Ward, while the Greens are fielding a ticket, headed by Shafaq Jaffery.
Suburbs in North Ward
Agnes Banks, Berkshire Park, Cambridge Gardens, Cambridge Park, Castlereagh, Cranebrook, Emu Heights, parts of Emu Plains, Jordan Springs, parts of Kingswood, Llandilo, Londonderry, parts of Penrith, Werrington, Werrington County and Werrington Downs.
Where to vote in North Ward on September 14
Andromeda Community Centre, Berkshire Park Hall, Cambridge Gardens Public, Cambridge Park High School, Cambridge Park Public School, Castlereagh Public School, Cranebrook High School, Emu Heights Public School, Emu Plains Community Centre, Henry Fulton Public, Jamison High School, Jamisontown Uniting Church Hall, Jordan Springs Community Hub, Kingswood Anglican Church, Kingswood Park Public, Kingswood Public, Llandilo Public School, Londonderry Public School, Nepean High School, Penrith PCYC, Samuel Terry Public School, St Dominic’s College, St Marys Memorial Hall, Werrington County Public, Werrington Public.
More details on pre-poll locations and other information can be found here.
Candidates in their own words
John Thain – Labor
My journey began as a Tradie, working as an Electrical Fitter Mechanic before I transitioned into the Power Transmission Industry.
Over the years, I worked my way up from a Sales Engineer to the National Project Manager for both mechanical and electrical drive systems, with a focus on automation.
Eventually, my career took a new direction when I started working with providers of the NDIS. Today, I am part of the NDIS Partners in the Community Program, serving as a Local Area Coordinator (LAC).
I have accumulated a wealth of experience in Local Government, having served as Mayor of the City and Deputy Mayor twice. My extensive knowledge covers all aspects of Council business, from Strategic and Management plans to Zonings and Master Plans, all while maintaining a strong connection to local issues.
One of my significant contributions has been as a driving force behind Urban Renewal in older, established areas. My efforts have led to the revitalisation of Cranebrook Shops, the creation of the all-weather Little Athletics Track, the development of the Trinity Drive Mixed Recreation Space, and the Cranebrook Skate Park. Additionally, I spearheaded upgrades to Werrington Lake, introducing play equipment, a splash pad, and outdoor gym facilities.
In recent years, I successfully initiated an audit of rural land drainage, which identified priorities and established a work schedule. This project secured $800,000 in funding for the first year, with plans to increase this amount in subsequent years to accelerate completion.
As I seek another term representing Penrith North Ward in the upcoming election on September 14, I remain committed to continuing my work for the community, leveraging my vast experience and dedication to local issues.
Also on John Thain’s ticket: Robin Cook, Kyra Quinlivan, Bradley Hulls, Laine Fox.
Amanda Cardwell – Independent
Penrith needs Councillors who think independently and act decisively, free from political influences and external pressures. They should be dedicated to putting the community’s needs first. Sadly, other than independent candidates this has not been occurring.
I believe I am well-suited and can bring the fresh perspective that is urgently needed.
I’m a lifelong resident of western Sydney, married with two young children. I completed my HSC at St Marys Senior High School and have been working since I was 14, which has instilled a strong work ethic in me.
Over the past 14 years, I’ve built a successful career in the Project Management field. This experience has given me a deep understanding of budget and schedule management and effective spending. I’ve seen firsthand how inefficiencies can affect projects and am committed to tackling these issues head-on.
I would focus on balancing the immediate needs of our residents with long-term goals. My approach would ensure that our decisions are both practical and forward-thinking, addressing current concerns while planning for sustainable growth and development. I am particularly committed to advocating for weekly rubbish collection, enhancing road and footpath conditions, and implementing greater safety measures for our community.
With a strong commitment to integrity, I am dedicated to enhancing our city’s amenities, improving community services, and delivering crucial infrastructure improvements in the North Ward, particularly in drainage repairs and flood resilience.
I believe in the importance of a robust, independent Council to make Penrith a safer and better place to live and work. My team and I are also focused on addressing the current lack of female representation in North Ward and ensuring the Council remains accountable with greater female North Ward representation to its residents.
As part of my commitment to giving back, I plan to donate 25 per cent of my first year’s net income as a Councillor to charities that support women, including those focused on domestic violence, empowerment, gender equality, and resources to combat abuse. Together, we can build a stronger, safer Penrith and North Ward for everyone.
Also on Amanda Cardwell’s ticket: Geetha Rajagopalan, Josie Monteleone, Elizabeth Curtis, Ross Cardwell.
Glenn Gardiner – Independent
I live in Londonderry with my wife and two children and I was first elected to Penrith Council in December 2021.
I believe that Council should be focused on the basics, such as giving residents the best possible access to quality roads, great community parks and a thriving local economy.
I am passionate about flood management and I represent Penrith Council on the Nepean-Hawkesbury Floodplain Committee. Following my criticism of government responses to emergencies during recent flooding events in Llandilo and Londonderry, my advocacy and submission to the 2022 NSW Flood Inquiry contributed to the creation of the Community First Responder Program.
The single biggest issue facing council now is the flooding risk that is present for rural areas of North Ward. Maintenance to storm water drains has been neglected for many years and a recent audit has found that it will cost $7.1m to bring the rural storm water drainage up to specification, currently there is $800k allocated to this maintenance requirement.
On July 22 I moved a motion to provide $7.1m in funding from the surplus funds realised from the sale of the Emu Plains Industrial site – only Sue Day and Kevin Crameri supported this motion and so it failed. My intention is to continue to advocate for this maintenance to occur and find alternate funding sources – I will not give up on this issue.
Other areas of my focus, if re-elected, will be to advocate for road upgrades, particularly around the Werrington area, where the road network hasn’t seen any substantial upgrades in over 40 years.
I believe that sensible and well thought out plans for managing development and population growth will determine our city’s liability and therefore I will seek to ensure that future developments enhance our city rather than reduce the quality of living for current residents.
Also on Glenn Gardiner’s ticket: Kevin Crameri, Damian Griggs, Varun Thakkar, Barbara Murphy.
Ross Fowler – LiberalÂ
A long-term local resident, I am in my eighth consecutive term on Council after first being elected in 1991. I served as Mayor in 1995-96, 2013–14 and 2018-20.
I hold a Bachelor of Commerce, am a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, a registered Company Auditor and Tax Agent and am the Principal of Ross Fowler and Co, a Chartered Accountancy firm in Penrith. Since 1991 I have represented Council on CivicRisk Mutual Ltd, (formerly Westpool) – the local government insurance and risk management mutual and am currently Board Chairman.
I was instrumental in securing the Penrith Whitewater Stadium ahead of the 2000 Olympics and was Board Chairman of the company which operated the facility.
I am a member of the Boards of Penrith Performing & Visual Arts Ltd and Penrith City Children’s Services Cooperative, and also represent Council on the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee and Heritage Advisory Committee.
I am leading Council’s objective to increase Council’s property portfolio and therefore reduce Council’s financial reliance on rates income.
My extensive financial acumen has been of great benefit to Council over many years.
My goal if re-elected is to continue to help support a strong local economy, help create job opportunities for local residents, and to ensure that Council remains in a sound financial position to best meet the needs and expectations of residents and ratepayers.
Together with Reece Nutall, a Cranebrook local and youth advocate who was the 2023 Penrith Young Citizen of the Year, the North Ward Liberal team will continue to support investment in local sporting facilities, safe and fun local entertainment and hospitality opportunities and quality preschool and childcare facilities. We will continue to advocate for funding for North Ward to ensure we get our fair share of upgrades to parks recreation facilities roads and drainage.
Also on Ross Fowler’s ticket: Reece Nuttall, Dennis Golding, Enid Golding, Julie Fletcher.
Shafaq Jaffery – Greens
Running for Councillor at Penrith North Ward can be a rewarding experience for several reasons for myself:
1. Community Impact: As a Councillor, I have the opportunity to directly influence local policies and projects that affect the daily lives of residents. This includes improvements in infrastructure, community services, and local development.
2. Representation: North Ward covers diverse areas. Representing these communities allows me to advocate for their specific needs and ensure their voices are heard in council decisions.
3. Leadership Opportunities: Serving as a Councillor can provide valuable leadership experience. I can work on various committees and initiatives, gaining skills in governance, public speaking, and strategic planning.
4. Networking: Being a Councillor connects myself with other local leaders, businesses, and community groups. This can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations that benefit the community.
As a Councillor in Penrith North Ward, some of my goals are:
Community Advocacy: Representing the interests and concerns of residents in areas like Emu Plains, Cranebrook, and parts of Penrith. This involves listening to community feedback and ensuring their voices are heard in council decisions.
Local Development: Working on projects that enhance local infrastructure, such as parks, roads, and public facilities. This also includes supporting sustainable development and urban renewal initiatives.
Public Services: Improving and maintaining essential services like waste management, public safety, and community health programs.
Environmental Stewardship: Promoting and implementing policies that protect the local environment, including green spaces and waterways.
Economic Growth: Supporting local businesses and attracting new investments to boost the local economy and create job opportunities.
I am a prominent social worker, journalist, and community activist based in Australia. I am founder and CEO of Pehchan TV and the President of the AusPak Women’s Association. I have been serving the Pakistani community in Australia for over 14 years.
Also on Shafaq Jaffery’s ticket: Nick Best, Jacquie Wilson, David Maurice, Zeeshan Abdul.
Emily Chate
Emily Chate joined The Western Weekender in 2024, and covers local news - primarily courts and politics. A graduate of the University of Wollongong, Emily has contributed to The Daily Telegraph and worked as a freelance journalist.
Troy Dodds
Troy Dodds is the Weekender's Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia's leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.